Current Status of the I-25 S-Curve Study Area and I-25 Gibson Interchange Reconstruction Project within the NMDOT Process
The I-25 S-Curve Area Study is in Phase 1B, while the I-25 Gibson Interchange Reconstruction Project in Phase 1C and further along in the NMDOT process. To learn more about the schedule for the I-25 S-Curve Area Study and the process while it is in Phase 1B and 1C, click here to the Schedule tab. The I-25 Gibson Interchange Reconstruction Project will be launching in early 2024, and a website will be shared at that time with more information.
NMDOT Process
New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) utilizes a set of procedures called The Location Study Procedures to facilitate corridor-level planning for various transportation projects. These procedures are applicable to all NMDOT projects, including highways, railroads, airports, and more, that involve the development and analysis of different alternatives.
The process of developing transportation projects is a comprehensive and time-consuming endeavor, comprising six major phases including (1) long-range planning, (2) prioritization and programming, (3) study scoping and conceptual design, (4) preliminary and final design, (5) construction, and (6) maintenance and performance monitoring. These phases encompass long-range planning, prioritization and programming, study scoping and conceptual design, preliminary and final design, construction, and maintenance and performance monitoring.
The study we are discussing is a crucial part of Phase 1 in the NMDOT project development process and is conducted in three distinct phases commonly known as Phases 1A, 1B, and 1C. Phases 1A and 1B aim to formulate, assess, and refine a range of potential alternatives to address the identified needs. The third phase, Phase 1C, entails the preparation of an environmental document and subsequent processing in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
In most cases, particularly when there are limited improvement alternatives, Phases 1A and 1B are combined into a single step. However, it is essential to ensure that the objectives of each phase are still met and documented, even when following this approach. Similarly, there can be an overlap between Phases 1C and 1D, with Phase 1D representing the Preliminary Design Phase.